13 Things to Do in Rimouski

Perched where the Saint-Lawrence and Rimouski rivers meet, Rimouski is a small sprawling city in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region of Quebec. Its city limits include the charming town of Le Bic, Parc national du Bic, and Saint-Blandine. It’s a perfect destination for outdoor lovers, but there is more to see and do in Rimouski than the great outdoors. You just need to dig a little deeper, which is part of the fun! Here are some exciting things to do in Rimouski!

Explore Parc national du Bic

Parc national du Bic sits in the Saint-Lawrence Estuary and features capes, bays, islands, mountains, and coves. There are 69 km of hiking trails to enjoy, 30 km of cycling trails, and guided sea kayaking adventures.

In winter, activities include fatbiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, kicksledding, and winter hiking. Campsites are available year-round, but they need to be reserved. Daily access to the park is 9.55 CAD per person.

Hike Sentier le Littoral

Sentier le Littoral, also known as the Coastal Hike, spans a 27 km area along the Saint-Lawrence River, salt marsh and Rocher-Blanc. There is a cycling trail and hiking trail in summer, and trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.

Discover Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse National Historic Site

One of the most difficult waterways in Canada exists off the shores of Pointe-au-Père. Thousands of ships have used this aid station to navigate between North America and Europe. It’s a beautiful lighthouse, with revolving art exhibits on the second floor. Climb to the top for a breathtaking view. The historic site also includes the lightkeeper’s house, assistant’s house, and foghorn building (closed in winter).

Peruse the Empress of Ireland Museum

On the 29th of May 1914 the Empress of Ireland, a 168m steamship, sank off the shores of Pointe-au-Père. It took 14 minutes for the ship to slip under the water of the Saint-Lawrence River, killing 1,012 of the 1,477 passengers onboard. One of the greatest marine tragedies in Canada’s history.

Visit the museum to learn about this tragic event, see objects collected from the wreckage and read passenger memories. The museum is located across from Pointe-au-Père lighthouse and open year-round. The monument and grave site for the victims are on rue du Fleuve, near Pointe-à-Pouliot.

Enter the Onondaga Submarine

The Onondaga submarine was active from 1967 to 2000. It’s an Oberon-class sub, used by the Canadian forces until it was decommissioned. The submarine arrived in Rimouski on the 2nd of August 2008. It took four attempts and three months to move the submarine onto land.

After a series of repairs and refurbishing, the museum opened on the 29th of May 2009. Take an audio self-guided tour of the submarine, then try The Superpowers of the Onondaga interactive game. Head over to its neighbours, the Empress of Ireland Museum, and the Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse National Historic Site (closed in winter).

Visit Île Saint-Barnabé

In summer, visiting Île Saint-Barnabé is a popular Rimouski attraction. To get there take a 20-minute ferry and remember to pack a lunch.

The island was named by Samuel de Champlain in 1603, five years before he established the colony of New France in what we now know as Quebec City. Today, the island is perfect for hiking and camping. It’s home to rich flora and fauna, and a lovely spot for watching sunsets over the Saint-Lawrence River. Learn more here.

See a Show in the Region

Rimouski has a thriving arts scene, with dance, comedy, music, and dramatic performances throughout the year. Salle Desjardins-Telus is the city’s premier performing arts centre with a robust program throughout the year.

Over on rue Michaud, La Paradis is a small performing arts cooperative with community performances. In Le Bic, head over to Théâtre du Bic for spectacular shows, followed by a delicious dinner in one of Rimouski’s restaurants. 

Here are some of my favourite restaurants on the way to Rimouski:

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Go Rock Climbing at Riki Bloc

This indoor rock-climbing centre is located in a decommissioned church on rue St-Germain. No need to be a member, everyone is always welcome. Try bouldering or rope climbing. Those wishing to learn how to rock climb or ice climb can take a course with experienced guides. Learn more here.

Learn Tons at Musée régional de Rimouski

Located in an early 19th-century church, this museum focuses on contemporary art, and the history and heritage of the Bas-Saint-Laurent region. The church was one of the few buildings to survive the great fire that nearly wiped-out Rimouski on May 6, 1950. Visit the museum’s Facebook page to learn about current exhibits and activities.

Hike the Canyon des Portes de l’Enfer

Canyon des Portes de l’Enfer is just outside the official limits of Rimouski, but well worth the 31 km drive. Spend a day hiking almost 20 km of trails and cross the highest suspension bridge in Quebec – it’s a 63m drop, so you may not want to look down!

Grand Sault Waterfall is a must, especially in spring when its flow is robust. Kids and adults will enjoy the Maze of Secrets, and there is geocaching, too. Daily access to the canyon is 16.95 CAD per adult (closed November to mid-May).

Try to Flee La Société Escape Rooms

Spend an hour with a couple of friends in an escape room at La Société. There are eight games ranging from beginner to intermediate. Games are designed for ages 7 an up, and children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. In summer, they have an arcade, in a bus. Check the schedule here.

Compete at Paintball Rimouski

Go with friends, family, or travel buddies for a day of strategy and physical activity. A team of 6 to 8 people is required for the paintball activities. There are 6 activities to choose from, including capture the flag, king of the hill, and terminator. There is also a 9-hole golf course. A day of paintball costs 80 CAD per person, which includes equipment, mask, combat clothing, and 500 paintballs. Learn more here (closed in winter).

Go for a Great Walk at Club Mouski

This Coopérative cross-country ski club has traced and classic step trails. The trails pass through the MACPÈS deer range, making wildlife encounters a frequent occurrence. There is also 15 km of snowshoe trails, which are also used by hikers.

A small number of refuge huts are located along the trails, perfect for a little relaxation. The day rate for cross-country skiing is 17 CAD, and 6 CAD for snowshoeing. To become a member is $100, but then one is good to go. So, it may interest readers in Quebec, or travellers who don’t mind a little splurge to access gorgeous trails!

Rimouski is a wonderful city with a lot to offer. Enjoying nature is a big part of life in this part of Quebec, but Rimouski attractions also include sports, museums, art, and historic sites. The more you explore the city, the more things you’ll find to do in Rimouski.

To continue planning your trip to Bas-Saint-Laurent, read these articles:

• 4 Pet-Friendly Hotels in Rivière-du-Loup
• 5 Best Things to Do in Riviere-du-Loup
• 5 Awesome Places to Go Camping near Rivière-du-Loup
• 20 Must-See Quebec Attractions to Add to Your Province Bucket List
• 10 Top Things to Do in Quebec Province
• 46 Ultimate Best Quebec Guided Tours You Should Book Now in the Province

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