Each time we return to Quebec, we get uncovered to one thing thrilling, historic, scrumptious, and, typically, out of our consolation zone! We flew over the Mauricie Area through helicopter in Trois-Rivieres and Shawinigan. Out within the Lanaudiere Area, we stayed on this unbelievable dome with all of the facilities out within the woods. Within the Laurentians, we went canine sledding and mountain climbing in Mont Tremblant.
Our latest journey to go to Laval, Quebec, was no exception!
Out of the various issues to do in Laval, our first introduction to town was through iFly. (Indoor sky diving — extra on that later). From there, we had the chance to be taught in regards to the space’s historical past, expertise its pure magnificence, and dine at a number of unbelievable eating places.
If you happen to’re planning a visit to the world, this information is for you. We share resort suggestions, our favorite eating places, and the perfect issues to see in Laval, relying in your pursuits. There really is one thing for everybody.
Historical past of Laval
- The territory now referred to as town of Laval was first inhabited by Mohawks.
- Laval is known as after François de Laval, Quebec’s first Roman Catholic bishop.
- Town of Laval was established by amalgamating 14 municipalities right into a single metropolis on August 6, 1965.
- It’s the third largest metropolis in Quebec and the 14th largest metropolis in Canada.
The way to Get to Laval, Quebec
There are a number of alternative ways you can also make the journey to Laval, relying in your funds, schedule, and your most popular type of journey, starting from a multi-hour street journey to a fast flight. Listed below are a number of of the out there choices and the small print you have to make the appropriate alternative in your subsequent weekend getaway:
By Automobile
In case you are something like us, you take pleasure in a very good street journey. If you happen to’re travelling from Toronto through ON-401 E, the journey to Laval will take roughly 5 ½ hours. Alternatively, you possibly can take the Trans-Canada Freeway. It is going to add an hour to your route, however the views are unbelievable. If you’d like an epic getaway, and your schedule permits for a number of additional days, we suggest persevering with from Laval after your go to to Quebec Metropolis (roughly 2 ½ to three hours). That is one other stunning vacation spot in Quebec that we imagine everybody ought to go to at the very least as soon as!
By Bus
There is no such thing as a direct bus that travels from Toronto to Laval. Nonetheless, for those who’re prepared to vary buses in Montreal, this can be a budget-friendly solution to make the journey (particularly with the price of fuel). Tickets from Toronto to Montreal on the Megabus begin at roughly $49.99 a technique, and the journey is estimated to take 6 ½ hours. From there, you possibly can catch a bus with the Société de transport de Montréal, which can take you throughout the river to Laval. This takes roughly 25 minutes, with tickets costing simply $4.50.
By Practice
If you happen to choose the expertise of travelling by prepare, financial system class tickets with VIA Rail begin at $54 one-way from Toronto to Montreal. Reserving a direct journey with no connections will take roughly 5 ½ to six hours. As outlined above, this can even require taking a bus from Montreal to Laval.
By Airplane
Lastly, in case you are in a rush to make the journey, Porter Airways affords a direct flight from Toronto to Montreal beginning at roughly $310 earlier than taxes and costs. This can shorten your journey considerably, with the flight lasting just one hour and quarter-hour. Nonetheless, just like the bus and prepare choices above, you continue to must take the bus from Montreal to Laval.
Motels in Laval, Quebec
Now that you’ve got selected tips on how to journey to and from Laval, the subsequent necessary element to contemplate in your journey is the place to remain. When trying to find lodging in Laval, there are lots of locations to select from, together with accommodations and leases by websites like Airbnb and VRBO. That can assist you slim the checklist and discover a place we’re assured you’ll take pleasure in, listed here are our resort suggestions:
Sheraton Laval Lodge
2440 Autoroute des Laurentides
We stayed on the Sheraton Laval Lodge throughout our latest journey to Laval. This elegant resort simply accomplished main renovations in 2022 at a price of $20 million. The outcome? From the marble loos to the subtle décor, you’ll really feel as if you might be staying within the lap of luxurious. The resort even gained gold certifications final fall for “Inside Design” in 2 separate classes: “Lodging, restaurant & bar/Chain resort” and “Particular Awards/Renovation (before-after).”
Along with the attractive rooms, the resort affords many nice facilities to profit from your expertise. The on-site restaurant, La Piazza, affords an upscale menu of genuine Mediterranean dishes. If you wish to calm down and luxuriate in a drink, you possibly can go to Bar La Cupola. You may also pamper your self with a therapeutic massage at Amerispa.
Le St-Martin Lodge & Suites
1400 Rue Maurice-Gauvin
Positioned a brief stroll from lots of the well-liked points of interest and actions in Laval, Le St-Martin Lodge & Suites is conveniently situated as a “house base” in your subsequent trip. This Victorian-style resort has a complicated and welcoming vibe with French-inspired paintings and darkish wooden highlights. In-built 2003, this resort is a member of Inexperienced Key International’s Eco-Ranking Program, making it an amazing alternative for travellers who prioritize environmental accountability.
Within the coronary heart of the resort, you can find The Piano Bar, a chic but snug place to take pleasure in one among their particular home cocktails. In case you are visiting throughout the hotter summer season months, you possibly can benefit from the outside terrace with superbly landscaped gardens and an outside Jacuzzi.
Grand Occasions Lodge
1700 Rue Jeanne-Mance
One other resort that’s well-situated for exploring town, the Grand Occasions Lodge is within the Centropolis, Laval district. This contemporary resort affords floor-to-ceiling home windows in each room, providing you with a memorable view of town throughout your keep. Relying on how many individuals you might be travelling with, there are a number of completely different room choices, resembling two queen beds, a king mattress, or a king mattress with a murphy queen mattress.
Positioned within the resort is the Sofia Laval, a pizzeria with a menu that options traditional Italian delicacies, together with pizza (in fact), pasta, and upscale entre gadgets. Gluten-free pizza choices can be found for these with dietary restrictions. Additionally on-site, you can find a small, cozy bar, an indoor pool, and a buffet-style continental breakfast unfold.
18 Issues to Do in Laval, Quebec on Your Subsequent Weekend Getaway
Strive Indoor Skydiving at iFly
2700 Ave du Cosmodome
This has been a bucket checklist merchandise of ours for a very long time. We’ve pushed by Oakville’s location a number of instances saying to ourselves, we’ve acquired to do that at some point as precise skydiving for now’s too terrifying.
If you go to iFly, you’ll really feel like you might be flying whereas defying the legislation of gravity of their 12 ft (3.7m) diameter wind tunnel. The tunnel recreates the freefall portion of a skydive, offering an unbelievable adrenaline rush inside a secure and supervised setting. There are a number of packages to select from. The “Initiation” bundle affords individualized directions, pre-flight coaching, and two flights for $69.99.
You have to be 4 years outdated or older to take part, and flyers below the age of 18 must be accompanied by an grownup on the day of their flight. Nonetheless, you might be shocked to be taught that the situation is very accessible, having accommodated guests in wheelchairs, on crutches, and extra.
Take pleasure in a Scrumptious Brunch at La Bête à Ache
1969 A. des Laurentides
Whether or not you’re trying to seize takeout whereas exploring the various actions to do in Laval otherwise you’re inquisitive about a laid-back and comfy spot for a scrumptious brunch, La Bête à Ache is the perfect cease. This location combines a restaurant, bakery, patisserie, and caterer. Prepared-to-go meals, breads, and artisanal merchandise can be found. The menu contains a scrumptious number of fashionable European dishes, in addition to an assortment of breads and artisanal merchandise.
Chef Marc-Andre Royal likes to work with regionally sourced, seasonal merchandise and contemporary, natural elements. This consists of produce from native farmers and fish from sustainable fishing. He has been featured on varied tv reveals, together with Un Chef à L’oreille, Curieux Bégin and La Cantine.
Discover Area on the Cosmodome Laval
2150 Laurentian Autoroute
Okay, so a go to to the Cosmodome might not truly take you into area, however it is going to offer you an immersive journey for area lovers of all ages. This simply tops our checklist of enjoyable issues to do in Laval for those who journey as a household. You and your youngsters will likely be invited to take part in interactive digital missions, travelling by area whereas studying in regards to the universe and area exploration.
One other enjoyable attraction on the Cosmodome Laval is the coaching simulators. Designed to duplicate the expertise real-life astronauts would expertise, the simulators assist you to expertise first-hand what it might be wish to be in area, together with studying tips on how to stroll on the moon, navigating the lack of gravity, or withstanding the distinctive results of spatial disorientation.
In addition they supply an assortment of exhibitions like a conventional museum. You may see a set of fascinating space-related gadgets, together with a spacesuit from the Apollo mission period, rocket replicas, and one among solely 5 lunar rock samples in Canada.
Tickets price simply $5 for fundamental admission to the exhibition. In case you are inquisitive about a digital mission, tickets begin at $18 for an grownup (1 digital mission + exhibition) and $14.50 for college kids/seniors. Youngsters 6 and below can go to at no cost.
Seize a Drink and a Chew to Eat at Le Balthazar Resto-Pub
195 Promenade du Centropolis
If you happen to’re in search of the proper place to take pleasure in dinner and a drink, look no additional. At Le Balthazar Resto-Pub, you can find a collection of over 100 completely different beers, together with a concentrate on Quebec microbrewery merchandise. If beer isn’t what you need, they’ve a artistic drink menu that includes signature cocktails and a refreshing beer sangria.
Along with the various drink choices, additionally, you will discover a tasty menu of conventional pub-style meals, together with nachos, poutine choices, burgers, tacos, and extra. Any burger may be made with a plant-based patty for these in search of a vegetarian choice. Don’t overlook to complete your meal with a scrumptious dessert, like their cheesecake brownie or Pretzelicious pretzel.
We extremely suggest planning to go to on the weekends. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, Le Balthazar hosts dwell performances by visitor artists and bands for his or her acoustic evenings.
Spend the Afternoon at Centropolis Laval
1799 Av. Pierre-Peladeau
In case you are in search of a one-stop store for a day of leisure, Centropolis affords the proper expertise. Right here, you can find a large assortment of various shops of their outside advanced, a big gourmand market, eating places and eateries, a cinema, a gaming pup, indoor climbing partitions, a mini-golf course, and iFly indoor skydiving (talked about above).
In fact, it might be laborious to suit all of it into an hour or two with so many issues to see and do in a single location. We suggest blocking a day to take all of it in.
This can be a excellent place to start out for these inquisitive about seeing the completely different eating places in Laval, Quebec. You can find many alternative types and flavours, starting from American BBQ and fried rooster to conventional Mediterranean and gourmand vegan delicacies. There may be certain to be one thing for everybody.
Take within the Magic at Vibrant Moments, a Fireplace-Themed Mild and Sound Expertise
A novel show that includes 60+ LED mild installations at Centropolis, Vibrant Moments is an exquisite alternative to rejoice the winter expertise round an animated digital campfire. The sunshine modifications and strikes to the rhythm of the accompanying soundtrack, creating a surprising presentation that replicates the motion of fireside. It’s designed to function a logo of pleasure, heat, and human connection.
This collaboration between CR34TE and La Centrale des artists will run at Centropolis’ Place Centrale from February 9th to March 24th. The present will come alive each quarter-hour, beginning at 7 PM and operating till 9:30 PM every night.
Begin Your Day with Breakfast at La Piazza
As we already talked about, La Piazza is an upscale Mediterranean restaurant situated on-site on the Sheraton Laval Lodge. What you might not notice is that it’s also the proper place to kickstart your day with a scrumptious breakfast. They provide a tasty menu full of conventional breakfast favourites, together with country-style French toast, pancakes, an English muffin breakfast sandwich, and extra.
If you happen to choose to sleep in a bit of longer on Sundays, you’re not alone. The restaurant affords a scrumptious buffet Sunday Brunch. There are restricted seats, so reserve your house on-line to make sure you may get in.
Get Outdoor and Immerse Your self in Nature at Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles
345 Boulevard Saint-Rose
Do you’re keen on spending time open air? In that case, we suggest including Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles to your checklist of must-see places. This stunning park and wildlife reserve is the proper alternative to benefit from the contemporary air and expertise the world’s pure magnificence.
Whereas we have been there, we loved a guided tour of the museum. Throughout that tour, our unbelievable guides Catherine, Alexia (Biologist), and Megan talked in regards to the space and what makes it so particular. Some attention-grabbing information they shared with us embody:
- There are 280 Species of birds within the space, and it’s the one turtle rehabilitation place in Quebec.
- Do you know that the Woodpecker can wrap its super-long tongue round its mind to guard it when it’s wood-pecking?
- Fishing is part of the custom and tradition of the world. It’s showcased within the museum.
The park affords a variety of actions for all seasons, together with mountaineering, kayaking, skating, fishing, and ice-fishing. Nonetheless, the first focus of the park is its conservation efforts, the museum, and schooling on the errors of man on the setting. Collaborating in park occasions or packages helps fund and help its mission to guard the wealthy pure setting and native species in danger.
Go Skating or Ice Fishing at Berge aux Quatre-Vent
925 rue Riviera
One other great place to spend a while open air is Berge aux Quatre-Vent. This park is situated proper within the coronary heart of Laval-West, however it proves you don’t have to depart the city space of Laval to take pleasure in some contemporary air. In winter, this park options an outside skating rink that’s free to make use of on evenings and weekends.
That is additionally a well-liked ice-fishing location. Ice fishing huts may be arrange between December fifteenth and March fifteenth with the acquisition of a fishing cabin license. We had the chance to be taught in regards to the fundamentals of city ice fishing with Raymond VS Bass, a well-known Quebec YouTuber.
In case your journey takes you to the world throughout the hotter summer season months, skating is clearly off the desk. However the park continues to be value a go to. Rather than the outside rink and ice fishing huts, you’ll discover an exquisite kilometre-and-a-half-long seashore on the banks of the Mille Îles River, full with a picnic space, volleyball web, and extra.
Take pleasure in a Trendy Culinary Expertise at Sekoya
3421 Boul Le Carrefour
One of many latest eating places in Laval, Sekoya, opened in late 2022. However don’t let its younger age idiot you – this restaurant has a lot to supply, from a scrumptious menu of “modern Quebec Delicacies” to a enjoyable fashionable aesthetic. The eating space the place you’ll be seated is open to the kitchen, permitting guests to see behind the scenes as chef Kevin Bates Breault works his magic. The restaurant additionally has a boutique the place you should buy merchandise from native artisans.
Chef Kevin Bates Breault has a mushy spot for the Laval space. He graduated from École Hôtelière de Laval and was mentored by Chef Richard Bastien, the chef of Mitoyen (extra on that location beneath). The result’s a proficient chef who mastered his methods, which may be seen in his expertly ready meals.
Grow to be an Airplane Pilot at Aerosim Expertise
1177 Desserte Nord Autoroute 440 #201
Okay, so that you aren’t truly going to be flying a airplane after a fast go to to Aerosim Expertise, however the Boeing 737 simulator is as shut as you’re going to get with out taking flying classes. If you first arrive, your teacher will provide you with a 20-minute briefing.
After guaranteeing you realize the fundamentals, your teacher will get you arrange contained in the cockpit in your Captain’s seat. You may be given the choice to select from greater than 24,000 locations. Moreover, you possibly can modify the climate situations, time of day, and different components. It’s an unbelievable digital actuality expertise for anybody who has ever had a dream of flying.
Tour the Serres Sylvain Cleroux Backyard Heart
1570 Rue Principale, Sainte-Dorothée
You could be shocked to be taught that Laval is taken into account the horticultural capital of Quebec. Nonetheless, visiting the Sylvain Cleroux Backyard Heart will shortly present you why! This spectacular greenhouse covers over 1,000,000 sq. ft and incorporates over 500 styles of crops, relying on the season. The most important producer of annual flowers in Quebec, additionally they supply a large assortment of different crops, together with topical crops, autumn chrysanthemums, poinsettias, and hydrangeas. Open all 12 months, guests can take pleasure in an exquisite splash of color whatever the temperatures outdoors.
Throughout our go to, we took a guided tour of the greenhouse with proprietor and supervisor Louise Arcand. Along with the tour, we participated in a tropical plant workshop the place we every made our personal potted crops. It was a enjoyable expertise!
Take pleasure in a Glass of Wine at Chateau Taillefer Lafon
1500 Mnt Champagne
This gorgeous winery shouldn’t be solely the proper place to calm down with a glass of wine (or two), however it’s additionally an exquisite location for footage or particular occasions if that’s what has introduced you to the world. What’s extra romantic for an anniversary or celebration together with your associate than strolling these stunning grounds, taking footage in entrance of the chateau, and having fun with a glass of native wine? You may also e book a personal wine tour or reserve a desk on the terrace for one thing additional particular.
The constructing itself is a sight to behold. Chateau Taillefer Lafon is the primary winery in Quebec approved to make use of the designation “Château,” a title often reserved for high-end European wine producers. Nonetheless, it gained’t take lengthy so that you can see why an exception was made with the beautiful structure and picturesque property.
Seize a Beer or Cocktail at Microbrasserie Les Insulaires
275 Boulevard de la Concorde Est
In case you are trying to find a comfy place to calm down with buddies or household and luxuriate in a drink, Microbrasserie Les Insulaires is simply the place. This cozy microbrewery affords a heat and welcoming feeling with its easy décor and pleasant employees. With 24 barrel traces, they provide a enjoyable vary of craft beer choices for each style and desire. If you happen to’re hungry, pair your drink with a bistro-style meal from their menu. Uncertain of what to order? We suggest the Beer Fish and Chips – a neighborhood favorite.
Expertise a Memorable Meal at Le Mitoyen
652 Place Publique
Established in 1977, a meal at Le Mitoyen is greater than only a meal—it’s a full expertise. We went for dinner throughout our go to, and Giovanni made us really feel like we have been his prime precedence the entire time. The meals was merely excellent, and the wine pairing was completely excellent.
The restaurant is in an ancestral house, harking back to your cute grandmother’s lovely cottage by the lake. Its heat and welcoming aesthetic is an ideal match for the excellent personalities of everybody we met there.
Chef/Proprietor Richard Bastien is well-known and extremely regarded within the space. His delicacies is impressed by contemporary Quebec merchandise. For instance, he works with a neighborhood Laval gardener to supply his greens. The menu itself modifications with every season, highlighting well timed flavours. Every dish is fastidiously ready and made to seem like a murals, additional including to the second.
Browse the Displays and Actions at Musée de la Santé Armand-Frappier
2150 Laurentides Freeway
Musée de la Santé Armand-Frappier is a well-liked science museum devoted to human well being. It affords enjoyable and academic actions, reveals, and workshops, all centered on its mission “to contribute to the well-being of people and communities.” Travelling with the household? Child-friendly actions be certain that the museum is enjoyable for all ages.
Tickets price $17 for adults, $13 for seniors (65+) or college students (18+ with scholar ID), and $13 for youngsters (7-17). Youngsters 6 and below can go to at no cost. A household bundle can also be out there for 2 adults and two youngsters or one grownup and three youngsters for $52. There are particular ticket offers for those who’re inquisitive about visiting each the Musée de la Santé Armand-Frappier and the Cosmodome Laval.
The museum consists of each everlasting and momentary reveals, resembling “4, 3, 2, 1… Santé” (4, 3, 2, 1… Cheers!), exploring the completely different ranges of human well being – molecules and cells, people, populations, and the planet. Go to the laboratory to look at and be taught in regards to the components that influence our well being on the mobile degree.
Strive Bouldering at La Crux Laval
1850 Boul. St-Martin Ouest
Have you ever ever thought-about mountaineering? What about climbing with out using ropes and harnesses? In that case, you’re in luck. The follow, referred to as bouldering, focuses on climbing nearer to the bottom with crash mats in place for cover. At La Crux, you can find practically 1000 sq. metres (10,00 sq. ft) devoted to educating and having fun with bouldering, together with a maintain and coaching wall.
After you’re executed climbing (or whereas the youngsters are nonetheless climbing), settle into the Bistro for a cup of espresso or a much-needed snack to refuel.
Basic admission (single day) is $23 for an grownup and $21 for a scholar. If you’ll be within the space for an prolonged time, there are additionally bundle offers for a number of visits. Gear leases can be found for gadgets like climbing footwear. In your first go to, a short guided tour will concentrate on displaying you the services, laws, and tips on how to get began on the earth of climbing.
Plan a Child-Free Afternoon on the Musée pour Enfants
3805 Boul. Curé-Labelle
This distinctive youngsters’s museum focuses on introducing youngsters aged 18 months to eight years to greater than 22 completely different careers with interactive reveals and experiences. They’ll strive milking a cow on the farm, analyzing x-rays at a veterinary hospital, filming a film with inexperienced display know-how, working an excavator at a development website, operating a money register on the grocery retailer, and extra. A go to to the Musée pour Enfants might encourage your little one to find their dream profession.
Tickets price $12 for adults (16-64), $10 for seniors (65+), and $28 for youngsters. They are often bought on-line prematurely or on the door. Are you interested by trying out the museum forward of your journey? Take a digital go to on the web site.
Locations to Go to Close to Laval
Along with the various issues to see in Laval, we encourage you to contemplate extending your journey to different unbelievable locations in Quebec. Listed below are three close by places you need to take into account:
Montreal
Lower than half-hour from Laval, Montreal is only a brief hop, skip and soar away. Actually, a lot of the methods outlined above to get to Laval included a cease in Montreal. This historic metropolis affords world-class museums, a thriving arts scene and gorgeous structure. Whether or not you might be planning a fast day journey throughout your Laval keep or extending your weekend getaway for a number of days within the metropolis, we’re constructive you’ll love Montreal!
Lanaudiere
Generally known as “the Inexperienced Area” of Quebec, the Lanaudiere area (between the Laurentian Mountains and the Saint Lawrence River) is a must-see vacation spot for outside lovers. With over 650 km of mountaineering, strolling, and mountain biking trails to discover, it’s an amazing place to get out and rejoice the province’s pure magnificence. That is additionally the situation of the well-known and well-liked Mont-Tremblant Nationwide Park, roughly 2 hours from Laval.
Trois-Rivieres
Roughly an hour and a half from Laval, you can find Trois-Rivieres, the second oldest metropolis in North America after Quebec Metropolis. This historic gem performed an important position within the improvement of Canada, serving as a central hub for commerce. In the present day, you possibly can embrace the world’s historical past by touring town’s many monuments, museums, and historic buildings. Throughout our go to, it genuinely felt like each nook of Trois-Rivieres had a narrative to inform.
FAQ
Is Laval Extra French or English?
As you might already know, the first language spoken in Quebec is French. This additionally stands true for Laval. Nonetheless, being a touristy space, English is spoken regularly in lots of retailers, eating places, and companies. Whereas realizing fundamental French can assist make your go to a bit of smoother, most English audio system can navigate town and not using a drawback.
Is Laval Completely different from Montreal?
Laval is usually mistakenly seen as only a portion of Montreal. Nonetheless, they’re two separate cities, every with its personal distinctive vibe and character. Whereas Montreal is bigger, its elevated dimension brings extra site visitors and extra challenges to find parking. Laval, however, is a bit of quieter and extra just like the “suburbs” than a bustling metropolis.
We suggest researching what points of interest are in every metropolis to seek out the perfect match for you and your preferences. Fortunately, the 2 cities are shut sufficient that you could possibly simply make a day journey from one to the opposite, having fun with the perfect of each in your getaway.
What Ought to I Carry on My Journey to Laval, Quebec?
When deciding what to pack in your journey to Laval, you will have to contemplate the season you might be travelling and which actions you propose to take pleasure in.
If you happen to’re travelling in the summertime, pack for a seashore day on the Mille Îles River, together with, clearly, a washing go well with and seashore towel. A big sports activities umbrella and seashore chairs will assist you to arrange a cushty, shaded place to calm down for the afternoon.
Then again, for those who’re travelling throughout the winter months, you could pack with a concentrate on tips on how to hold your self heat throughout any outside adventures. This consists of:
– A heat winter jacket
– Mittens or gloves
– Scarf, neck hotter, or chilly climate gaiter
– A toque
– Merino wool socks
– Heat winter boots
Don’t overlook to deliver loads of heat clothes to decorate in layers, together with a moisture-wicking base layer and a mid-layer to entice physique warmth, like a fleece sweater.
