Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Laval, Quebec, Canada
1. Bois-de-l'Île-Verte
A unique urban forest with over 250 tree species, providing a serene escape from city life.
- Tree Diversity: Offers a rare chance to see such a wide variety of trees in one place.
- Urban Forest: An oasis in the city, offering tranquility amidst bustling Laval.
- Educational Trail: Includes educational signage about each tree species along the trail.
2. Aérophonique
An interactive sound installation that transforms wind into music, creating a unique and soothing experience.
- Wind-Activated Music: The only place in Laval where the wind plays music.
- Interactive Experience: Visitors can compose their own melodies using the wind.
- Public Art: A contemporary sculpture that also serves as a musical instrument.
3. La Roulotte Maisonneuve
A vintage caravan turned cozy bookstore and tea house, offering a quirky reading experience.
- Vintage Caravan: The only caravan bookstore in Laval.
- Tea House: A delightful spot to enjoy a cup of tea while reading.
- Rare Books: Features an array of hard-to-find and classic books.
4. La Grande Recyclerie
A creative space made entirely from recycled materials, promoting sustainability and innovation.
- Recycled Materials: Demonstrates what can be achieved with creativity and waste reduction.
- Artistic Exhibitions: Features rotating exhibits of recycled art and innovative projects.
- Workshops: Offers workshops on upcycling, DIY projects, and sustainable living.
5. La Maison Symbiose
An eco-friendly house that's designed to be energy-neutral and self-sufficient.
- Energy Neutral: Uses renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power.
- Self-Sufficient: Grows its own food and treats wastewater on-site.
- Educational Tours: Offers guided tours to learn about sustainable living.
6. Le Labyrinthe de Laval
A tranquil labyrinth in the heart of a park, inviting reflection and relaxation.
- Meditation Labyrinth: Provides a peaceful space for meditation or contemplation.
- Nature Surroundings: Set in a park, surrounded by trees and wildlife.
- Community Events: Hosts events like meditation workshops and guided walks.
7. Le Mura à Laval
A unique street art project showcasing colorful murals by local and international artists.
- Street Art Gallery: An open-air gallery featuring vibrant, large-scale murals.
- Artist Collaboration: Collaborative projects between local and international artists.
- Urban Renewal: Contributes to the revitalization of Laval's urban landscape.
8. Le Musée de la Maison-Dubois
A historic home museum showcasing the life and work of a prominent Laval family.
- Historic House Museum: Provides a glimpse into the lives of the Dubois family, early settlers of Laval.
- Artifacts and Documents: Features artifacts, photographs, and documents from the Dubois family's life.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours in both French and English.
9. Le Parc des Prairies de Laval
A large park with grasslands, wetlands, and a birdwatching tower.
- Grassland Habitat: Provides a unique habitat for various grassland species.
- Wetlands and Wildlife: Features wetlands that attract diverse bird populations.
- Birdwatching Tower: Allows visitors to observe birds in their natural habitat.
10. Le Théâtre Lac-des-Neiges
A quaint community theatre located in a beautiful park setting.
- Community Theatre: Showcases local and professional theatre productions.
- Park Setting: Set in a scenic park, offering a picturesque backdrop.
- Workshops and Classes: Offers workshops and classes for aspiring actors and theatre enthusiasts.
11. Le Val-des-Cerises
A unique cherry orchard that allows visitors to pick cherries during the season.
- Cherry Picking: Allows visitors to pick their own cherries during the harvest season.
- Historic Site: Located on a historic site, with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century.
- Cherry Products: Sells cherries and cherry products, such as jam, syrup, and pies.
12. Le Parc des Fossiles de Laval
A dinosaur-themed park with interactive exhibits, perfect for kids and dinosaur fans.
- Dinosaur Park: Features life-size dinosaur models and educational exhibits.
- Interactive Activities: Includes activities like fossil digs and dinosaur-themed playgrounds.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about dinosaurs and paleontology.
13. Le Jardin des Oiseaux Exotiques
A exotic bird sanctuary showcasing over 200 species of birds.
- Exotic Birds: Features over 200 species of exotic birds, including macaws and flamingos.
- Avian Hospital: Includes an on-site avian hospital that cares for injured birds.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about bird conservation and care.
14. Le Phare de Laval
A historic lighthouse offering stunning views of the river and city.
- Historic Lighthouse: One of the oldest lighthouses in Quebec, built in 1850.
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Laval River and city skyline.
- Community Events: Hosts events like art exhibits, concerts, and guided tours.
15. Le Vignoble de la Rivière des Prairies
A small vineyard producing ice wines from local grape varieties.
- Small Vineyard: One of the smallest vineyards in Quebec, with only a few acres.
- Ice Wines: Specializes in producing high-quality ice wines.
- Tastings and Tours: Offers tastings, tours, and vineyard experiences.