Top 15 Attractions in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec

Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu is located just 40 kilometers southeast of Montreal, yet it stands out as its own distinct city. Historically dissected by the Richelieu River, it was once a significant transportation hub. Today, it thrives as a vibrant community offering diverse attractions.

Founded in 1665, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu bears remnants of its rich history, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts, urban adventurers, and culture lovers alike. If you have the opportunity to spend a few days here, consider these 15 premier activities in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu.

1. Walk along a Canal

The Chambly Canal is a National Historic Site that meanders along the Richelieu River for nearly 20 kilometers. Established in 1843, it served as an essential trade route between Canada and the United States.

Featuring 10 bridges, eight of which remain manually operational, the canal also encompasses nine original hydraulic locks, with eight still fully functional. This picturesque location attracts cyclists and hikers seeking a scenic route, as well as boating enthusiasts.

2. Visit a Fort

Three forts have been constructed at the Chambly Canal National Historic Site: the first Fort Sainte-Thérèse in 1665, followed by a second in 1747 and a third in 1760. The initial fort was built by France’s Carignan-Salières Regiment from Piedmont but was abandoned by 1667. The second fort aimed to deter Iroquois and English encroachment.

Later, the English discovered the burnt remnants of Fort Sainte-Thérèse, which they rebuilt for a third iteration. This site was ultimately abandoned until archaeological excavations commenced in 2008.

3. Watch Balloons in the Air

Since 1984, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu has hosted the remarkable Festival International des Montgolfières (International Hot Air Balloon Festival). If you visit in August, this event is a must-see.

Recognized as Canada’s largest hot air balloon festival, it attracts attendees not only from local regions but also from the United States and neighboring Canadian provinces. The festival is hosted at the Saint-Jean Airport, weather permitting.

Daily activities include two flight launches at 6 AM and 6 PM. The festival spans over a week, offering additional attractions such as live performances, amusement rides, and delightful culinary options.

4. Spend a Day in the Park

Ideal for family outings or solo visits, the Centre-de-Plein-Air-Ronald-Beauregard park lies on the west bank of the river, featuring a variety of year-round activities.

During winter, visitors can enjoy ice skating while appreciating the river’s scenic views. In warmer months, the park provides opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and picnicking, alongside volleyball and tennis courts.

A playground is available for children, while visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, and even ice skates at the Centre-de-Plein-Air-Ronald-Beauregard.

5. Learn About the City’s History

Explore the Fort Saint-Jean Museum to gain insights into the history of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. Established in 1960, this museum showcases a comprehensive collection of military artifacts spanning 350 years.

Located within the Royal Military College Saint-Jean, it retraces military history through weaponry, uniforms, maps, artifacts, and archived documents. The museum site, situated near the Richelieu River, is part of the Fort Saint-Jean compound, a designated National Historic Site of Canada. While the Royal Military College remains operational, certain sections are inaccessible to the public.

6. Go on a Wine and Cheese Tour

Recognized for its exquisite wine and cheese, Quebec boasts several producers in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. Embark on a wine and cheese excursion and relish the local culinary specialties.

Le Mas des Patriotes, a relatively new wine producer, crafts red, white, and rosé wines characteristic of the region. Visitors can stroll through the vineyards, tour the facilities, and savor wines of exceptional quality.

Fromagerie Au Gré des Champs is an award-winning cheese establishment renowned for its delicious organic cheese made from raw cow’s milk. Since its inception in 2000, it has produced popular varieties like Le Gré des champs and Le Monnoir.

7. Cycle Around

The Haut-Richelieu region, encompassing Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, features some stunning cycling trails. Cyclists can traverse the countryside, glide along the river, and pass by Mont Saint-Grégoire.

This activity provides an incredible opportunity to appreciate the beautiful scenery surrounding the city and its vicinity while stopping at numerous noteworthy sites along the way, including heritage locations, picnic areas, and forested paths.

A popular cycling route leads through the Iberville district to the town of Mont-Saint-Grégoire to the northeast, making for an enjoyable ride filled with discoveries.

8. Discover the Culture

Visit the historic village of L’Acadie to gain insight into the Acadian settlers who arrived in the region during the late 18th century. This charming village, located alongside the Petite-Rivière-de-Montréal, boasts a unique history.

Rich in both heritage and culture, L’Acadie is home to a historic church, picturesque houses, and several mid-century buildings. Although now part of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, it was once an independent municipality.

Stroll through the village, experiencing a sense of stepping back in time while admiring the remarkable architectural remnants. Quaint local shops and cafés are also available for exploration.

9. Head to the Market

Ferme Guyon is more than just a typical market; it functions as both a farmer’s market and a farm. Here, visitors can learn greenhouse vegetable cultivation, explore the nursery, or visit a historic barn established in 1860.

The Ferme Guyon hosts an array of plants, garden ornaments, and a kitchen that produces exceptional food daily. Visitors can also enjoy the sight of butterflies drawn to the abundant flora.

Explore the market for local products, including cheese, jams, coffees, oils, and craft beer. The venue also features a bakery and a café offering delicious homemade dishes prepared with farm-fresh ingredients.

10. Enjoy the Outdoors

Overlooking the city is Mont Saint-Gregoire, a true paradise for outdoor aficionados. Engage in hiking or cycling along the mountain trails, or take an ATV on one of the designated paths.

In winter, visitors can partake in snowmobiling, while spring offers opportunities for golfing at the 18-hole Mont-Saint-Grégoire Golf Club. The area also features fishing ponds, picnic spaces, and farm animals.

Adventurers may explore further by navigating the aerial course, which includes tree-swinging, traversing suspended bridges, climbing nets, and zip-lining.

11. Hop on a Historic Train

Located in the city of Saint-Constant, just west of Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Exporail boasts Canada’s most extensive railway collection. Although not every train is functional, the museum offers an impressive range of exhibits.

The museum presents both indoor and outdoor displays, utilizing over 22 hectares of space. Visitors can view miniature trains, step into a historic railway station, board antique trains, or experience a ride on an old streetcar.

12. Shop for Local Brands

Carrefour Richelieu serves as the prime destination in the city for acquiring local brands that may be unavailable elsewhere. This expansive shopping mall houses over 90 stores, ranging from department outlets to electronic shops and clothing brands.

The mall features various Canadian labels, alongside Quebec-based brands. Discover contemporary fashion at stores like Amnesia, Aubainerie, San Francisco, and Dynamite, or visit Winners, akin to the U.S. chain Marshalls.

Besides shopping, the mall features sit-down restaurants and fast-food establishments catering to diverse tastes. If you need to convert currency, a bank is conveniently located on-site.

13. Savour the Flavours

The culinary scene in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu is exceptional, promising delightful experiences for all palates. A variety of establishments cater to diverse tastes and budgets, ensuring everyone finds something appealing.

Restaurants range from gourmet dining to family-friendly venues. Certain places even permit guests to bring their own wine for an enjoyable dining experience.

Restaurant Vivaldi stands out for its Italian cuisine, while Bistro Braque offers an intimate atmosphere, and Brasserie de l’Ouest and Capitaine Pouf provide delectable homemade fish & chips.

14. Visit the Big City

Visitors to Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu should undoubtedly plan a day trip to Montreal, Canada’s second-largest city. Often regarded as ‘Canada’s Cultural Capital,’ Montreal offers a diverse cultural experience.

Highlights include the historic Notre-Dame Basilica, Place des Arts, and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, in addition to the Montreal Botanical Garden and Saint Joseph’s Oratory, which features the world’s second-largest copper dome.

Explore Old Montreal with its historical sites dating back to 1642, or visit the Quartier Latin for excellent dining, quaint coffee shops, and vibrant bars. Downtown Montreal showcases a modern urban atmosphere, while Chinatown adds a splash of cultural vibrancy since its establishment in 1877.

15. Board a Ship

Take a cruise along the Richelieu River and appreciate the breathtaking scenery. This experience allows you to explore not only the river but also the charming villages, towns, and cities lining its banks.

Boats navigate from Saint-Ours southward to the U.S. border, passing through Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu and the Fort Chambly National Historic Site, making this maritime adventure even more appealing.

Choose between daytime or evening cruises, complete with lunch or dinner, while soaking in the picturesque views. Shorter brunch cruises are also available, including one highlighting the Acadian heritage of the region.