Shawinigan is a vibrant city known for its active outdoor lifestyle and world-class energy museum. Explore a lively riverfront district filled with bistros and boutiques or venture out of the city to discover lush forests, shimmering lakes and snow-capped mountains in one of Quebec's most beautiful national parks.
Things to do in Shawinigan
Set in a 20th-century hydroelectric power station, the enormous Cité de l'Énergie complex celebrates Shawinigan's industrial past and eco-friendly future. You can learn about wind turbines, discover the art of electrochemistry and watch multimedia videos on the hydrogen revolution. In summer, catch family-friendly shows featuring music, dancing and acrobats.
Shawinigan is a gateway to Parc National du Canada de la Mauricie, a wild slice of Quebec strewn with dense evergreen forests and rugged Laurentian Mountains. Hike, camp and canoe in the summer and explore groomed cross-country ski trails in winter.
In downtown Shawinigan, the streets surrounding Ave Willow and Promenade Du St Maurice hum with activity. The riverfront district is brimming with atmospheric cafes, bars and restaurants, with the best offering beautiful views of the Saint-Maurice River.
Kids and adults alike will love taking on TreeGO Shawinigan, an aerial adventure course loaded with high ropes circuits, zip-lines and rock climbing walls. It's located in Melville Island Park, where you can canoe on the river, stroll along woodland trails or enjoy a scenic picnic on the foreshore.
Getting around Shawinigan
Downtown Shawinigan is easy to get around on foot or by using the city's trolleybuses. A rental car is best for exploring Quebec, with the drive to both Montreal and Quebec City taking under two hours. VIA Rail trains call at Gare de Shawinigan, a five-minute drive or 30-minute walk from the city centre.